What to Serve with Tamales: 35+ Easy Side Dishes
When I think about what to serve with tamales, my mind fills with colorful Mexican dishes.
These corn-wrapped delights need perfect partners! You’ll love how the right sides make tamales even better.
I’ve spent years trying different combinations at family gatherings. Some sides add spice, others bring freshness.
The best part? You can mix and match these sides to create your perfect tamale feast.
From rice to beans, salsas to salads, let’s find the tastiest companions for your tamales.
What Are Tamales?
Tamales are special Mexican treats wrapped in corn husks. People make them with masa dough and yummy fillings. I love how each family has their own special way of making them. You’ll find them stuffed with meat, cheese, or even sweet things. They’re perfect for big parties!
What to Serve with Tamales?
I’m excited to share my favorite tamale sides with you! From warm, comforting rice dishes to fresh salsas, you’ll find something perfect here. These sides make your tamale meal complete.
Traditional Mexican Rice Dishes
Rice dishes are must-haves at any tamale feast. They soak up all the tasty sauce and make the meal filling. My family always has at least one rice dish on the table.
- Authentic Mexican Rice: Soft grains dance with tomatoes and garlic. I learned this recipe from my grandma. The rice turns out perfectly orange and fluffy. Your tamales will love this classic partner.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fresh cilantro makes this rice pop with color. The lime adds a happy zing. You’ll taste bright flavors that wake up your taste buds.
- Green Mexican Rice (Arroz Verde): Blended poblanos and spinach give this rice its pretty green color. The herbs make it smell amazing. Your kitchen will feel like a Mexican restaurant.
- Yellow Rice with Corn: Sweet corn kernels peek through golden rice. Turmeric adds color and health benefits. This version brings sunshine to your plate.
Bean Variations
Beans are the heart of Mexican meals. They bring protein and comfort to your tamale plate. Every Mexican family has a special bean recipe that makes meals complete.
- Frijoles Puercos: These “dirty beans” mix crispy bacon and spices into creamy pinto beans. The smoky flavor makes your mouth water. I remember my aunt’s version that had everyone asking for seconds.
- Refried Beans: Smooth, creamy beans mashed with onions and Mexican spices. The rich texture pairs perfectly with tamales. You’ll love how they spread like butter.
- Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros): Cowboy-style beans swimming in a flavorful broth with bacon and chilies. The soup-like consistency adds warmth. These beans tell stories of Mexican ranch life.
- Mexican Black Beans: Tender black beans simmered with garlic and cumin. Their earthy flavor grounds the whole meal. Every spoonful brings comfort and satisfaction.
Salsa and Dip
Fresh salsas add bright flavors and exciting kicks to your tamale feast. These dips bring color and life to your table, making every bite more interesting.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro dance together in lime juice. The crisp texture adds excitement to each bite. My garden tomatoes make this extra special.
- Classic Guacamole: Creamy avocados mashed with lime, cilantro, and just enough heat. The smooth texture cools spicy tamales perfectly. Everyone fights over the last scoop!
- Salsa Roja: Roasted tomatoes and chilies blend into a vibrant red sauce. The deep flavors come from charred vegetables. Your tamales will thank you.
- Salsa Verde: Tangy tomatillos and green chilies create a bright, zesty sauce. The fresh taste cuts through the rich tamales. It’s like sunshine in a bowl.
- Mango Habanero Salsa: Sweet mangoes meet fiery habaneros in this tropical dream. The sweet-hot combo makes taste buds dance. You’ll want this on everything!
Fresh Salads
Fresh salads bring crisp textures and bright flavors to your tamale plate. These colorful combinations add healthy balance and make every bite exciting.
- Avocado Tomato Salad: Creamy avocado chunks mingle with juicy tomatoes and red onions. A lime dressing makes everything pop. I love making this when my garden tomatoes are ripe.
- Mexican Coleslaw: Crunchy cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing. Fresh cilantro adds that Mexican touch. Your tamales need this refreshing crunch.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: Grilled corn kernels mixed with mayo, lime, and chili powder. Cotija cheese adds salty magic. This salad brings the flavors of Mexican streets home.
- Nopales Salad(Cactus Salad): Tender cactus paddles tossed with tomatoes and onions. The unique texture surprises first-timers. You’ll find a new favorite green vegetable.
- Jicama Slaw: Crispy jicama sticks mixed with carrots and cucumber. Chili and lime make it zingy. The cool crunch balances warm tamales perfectly.
Easy Vegetable Sides
Simple veggie sides add color and nutrition to your tamale feast. These easy-to-make dishes bring warmth and comfort to your plate.
- Mexican Street Corn(Elote): Grilled corn slathered with mayo, chili powder, and cotija cheese. The smoky-sweet flavors will make you smile. Everyone fights for the last piece!
- Blistered Shishito Peppers: Charred peppers sprinkled with sea salt and lime juice. Most are mild, but some bring surprise heat. They’re like a pepper lottery!
- Mexican Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with chili powder and garlic. The golden edges hide fluffy centers. Your fork won’t stop going back for more.
- Oven Roasted Mexican Carrots: Sweet carrots coated in Mexican spices and roasted until tender. Honey adds a gentle sweetness. The colors brighten any table.
- Escabeche: Pickled carrots, jalapeños, and onions in tangy brine. The vinegar kick cuts through rich tamales. My grandmother’s recipe still makes my mouth water.
Soups
Warm, comforting soups make perfect partners for tamales. These traditional Mexican soups bring extra warmth and flavor to your meal.
- Chicken Tortilla Soup: Spicy broth filled with shredded chicken and crispy tortilla strips. Fresh avocado adds creamy richness. My mom’s recipe always cures what ails you.
- Sopa de Fideo (Mexican Noodle Soup): Thin noodles toasted and simmered in tomato broth until tender. Simple ingredients create pure comfort. You’ll love this Mexican version of chicken noodle soup.
- Caldo de Pollo: Clear chicken broth with tender vegetables and fresh herbs. The light flavor complements heavy tamales. Every Mexican grandmother has her special version.
- Black Bean Soup: Velvety black beans pureed with smoky chipotle peppers. Topped with Mexican crema and cilantro. This soup turns simple beans into something magical.
Light Appetizers
Start your tamale feast with these tasty bites. These appetizers wake up your taste buds and get you ready for the main event.
- Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers: Fresh jalapeno stuffed with cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon. The spicy-salty combo is addictive. I can never make enough of these!
- Queso Fundido: Melted cheese with spicy chorizo and roasted peppers. Warm tortillas scoop up the stretchy goodness. Your guests will gather around this bubbling dish.
- Tostadas: Crispy corn tortillas topped with beans, lettuce, and fresh vegetables. The crunchy base holds endless possibilities. You can customize each one differently.
- Mexican Street Corn Dip: Creamy dip packed with corn, cheese, and Mexican spices. Tastes like elote in scoopable form. Watch this disappear at your next party!
Quick Garnishes
Simple garnishes add the perfect finishing touch to your tamale plate. These quick additions bring extra flavor, texture, and authentic Mexican style to your meal.
- Mexican Crema: Silky, slightly tangy cream that’s thinner than sour cream. The smooth texture cools spicy tamales perfectly. You’ll want to drizzle this on everything.
- Queso Fresco: Fresh, crumbly white cheese with a mild, salty flavor. Sprinkle it generously over hot tamales. I love how it softens slightly without fully melting.
- Rajas con Crema: Roasted poblano strips swimming in a creamy sauce. The mild heat and smooth texture are irresistible. Your tamales will thank you for this classic topping.
- Lime Wedges: Fresh citrus wedges add bright bursts of flavor. One squeeze wakes up all the other flavors. Every Mexican table needs these green gems.
- Quick Pickled Red Onions: Bright pink onions pickled in lime juice and oregano. Their tangy crunch cuts through rich tamales. These pretty rings make every plate Instagram-worthy.
Drinks to Pair with Tamales
The right drink makes your tamale feast complete. These traditional Mexican beverages refresh and complement your meal perfectly.
- Atole: Warm, thick drink made from masa, vanilla, and cinnamon. This cozy beverage hugs you from the inside. Perfect for winter tamale celebrations.
- Horchata: Cool rice drink flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. The sweet, creamy taste refreshes between bites. You’ll need refills of this Mexican favorite.
- Homemade Margaritas: Fresh lime juice mixed with quality tequila and orange liqueur. The tart-sweet balance makes tamales sing. My secret recipe includes a splash of agave.
Final Thoughts
After finding all these amazing sides, you’re ready to create your perfect tamale feast!
I’ve shared my favorite combinations from years of Mexican family gatherings, but don’t be afraid to mix and match.
Whether you choose traditional rice and beans or try something new like mango habanero salsa, these sides will shine your tamales.
Remember, the best tamale meals bring people together. What matters most is sharing these delicious combinations with people you love.
I’d love to hear about your favorite tamale sides. What special dishes complete your tamale meal? So give your comment below.
